Thursday, September 19, 2013

On the Beat with Michael Wacha of the St. Louis Cardinals

During our recent time on the field at Busch Stadium, Chuck Gekas also landed young St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Michael Wacha. The 21 year old Wacha has appeared as a starter and reliver. When Chuck talked to him, Wacha had pitched in eight games over his two stints with the Cardinals this season.
I love this interview. Wacha is signing autographs as the interview begins. Autograph signing for kids is always great to see. Kudos to Wacha for that!
Chuck calls for Wacha and he stops signing to talk to us. I am sure Wacha has not done too many interviews. Chuck might even claim that this was his first as a major leaguer (at least pre-game on a day that he hasn't pitched).
It was fun talking to such a young player. What will happen to Wacha during the next few years? He was a first round draft pick in 2012 and has put up excellent numbers in parts of two seasons in the minors. Some day, years down the line, someone might dig up this interview as one of the few pieces left from his rookie season. Even if Wacha does not go on to stardom, it is still cool to get such a young, hopeful player.
I appreciate Wacha giving us his time and the St. Louis Cardinals organization for allowing us to do what we do. I also want to thank Chuck for joining me and being a part of some great memories.